The Story
Plant Bio
Asarum hexalobum, commonly known as Wild Ginger, is a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped leaves and distinctive, bell-shaped flowers that are usually brownish-purple, blending seamlessly into its lush, ground-covering habit.
The 'Asteroid' cultivar is distinguished by its particularly compact growth and striking, variegated foliage with silvery-white markings, adding ornamental appeal to shaded garden areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
4 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early fall.
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
- Provide partial shade for optimal growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- Transplant in early spring if needed.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining, acidic soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
- Fertilize lightly with acidic plant food
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall
- Avoid planting in alkaline soils
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger questions
What zones can Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger grow in?
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger deer resistant?
Yes — Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger bloom?
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger need full sun?
Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger does best in part shade.
More Asarum to compare
Arrowleaf Ginger
Asarum arifolium 'Spreading Form'
Cahaba River Wild Ginger
Asarum shuttleworthii 'Cahaba River'
Canadian Wild Ginger
Asarum canadense
Faurie's Wild Ginger
Asarum fauriei 'Galaxy'
Harper's Wild Ginger
Asarum harperi 'Eco Dark Heartlet'
Western Wild Ginger
Asarum caudatum
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Asteroid Sixlobed Wild Ginger with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.